Running a Business in NSW, Australia. Things you should know

1. Running a
business in NSW
find out how government
agencies can assist you
July 2010

2. Other calling options What government
agencies can do for you
If you need assistance in contacting the agencies in this booklet please use:
Translating and Interpretation Service (TIS) 13 14 50
Speak and Listen (SSR) 1300 555 727
TTY/Voice 13 36 77
This booklet is a collection of contact information and services provided by a range of government
agencies as a reference tool for small business in NSW.
The aim of this booklet is to help small business know about the government products and services
that are available to them and to assist small business to access them.
This booklet is produced by the Government Business Education Network (GBEN) who are
committed to helping small and medium business in NSW. GBEN was formed in 1998 and brings
together more than 20 government agencies (both federal and state) with an interest in helping
small and medium businesses in NSW.
Disclaimer
This booklet does not represent a complete list of government agencies providing services in NSW.
For more information please refer to the Government and business associations directory at:
www.business.gov.au/gbdirectory
It must not be relied on as legal advice. For more information, please refer to the appropriate
legislation or seek independent legal advice.
This booklet has been produced by the Government Business Education Network (GBEN).
The booklet can be downloaded from the resource section of www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au
ISBN 0 7347 6041 8
© State of New South Wales through NSW Fair Trading, 2010
3 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 4

3. Index
Starting a business
NSW Government Information
Business start-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26
Market analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 6, 7, 16, 19, 20 www.nsw.gov.au
Registering a business name/company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 9, 20, 21 Search for NSW Government information and services. Visit the business section for information on:
Registering a trademark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 life cycle, regulation, doing business with government, employing staff, environmental planning,
programs and grants.
Licences and permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 11 , 21
Employing staff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 10, 11, 13, 18, 20, 22
www.directory.nsw.gov.au
Search for the Governor, Premier, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Agencies and key people within
Programs and grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 14, 16, 19 the NSW Government.
Franchises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 8, 20
tenders.nsw.gov.au/nsw
Home based. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 10, 19, 20 Search for upcoming, current and closed tenders and details of awarded contracts over $150,000.
Register for email updates about business opportunities.
Running a business
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 5, 7, 16, 19 www.licence.nsw.gov.au
Apply for, or renew your licence online including business; occupations and trade; recreational licences
Energy and water efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
for the public and event and project permits.
Fair trading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 8, 21
www.nswprocurement.com.au
Doing business with government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 8, 9 Find out how to supply to or buy for government and how to become a prequalified supplier. Phone
Importing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 5, 7, 20 1800 NSW BUY (679 289).
Exporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 15, 17,20 Shop.nsw
Intellectual property. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Search for NSW Government publications and products including signs, passes, posters, databases,
Superannuation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3, 4, 9, 10, 12 maps and photographs offered by NSW Government agencies.
Taxation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 5,10,12, 24 Need more information?
Phone 133 679 (133 NSW) Department of Services, Technology
Training and development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 16, 20, 25 Hours 8:30am – 5:00pm and Administration
Level 21, McKell Building
Closing a business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 9, 10, 12, 18, 20, 22
2-24 Rawson Place
Government agencies index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Sydney NSW 2000
Other useful contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 3

4. business.gov.au AusIndustry
The Australian Government’s Supporting industry, research and innovation
principal business resource AusIndustry is the Australian Government’s principal business
program delivery division in the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.
The business.gov.au website is the federal government’s principal, award-winning business website
that offers simple and convenient access to government business information and services. AusIndustry delivers a range of more than 30 business programs - including innovation grants, tax and
duty concessions, small business development, industry support and venture capital - worth $2 billion
Whether you’re starting a business or seeking information on improving a business,
to more than 12,000 businesses and about 85,000 individuals every year.
business.gov.au has all the information and tools you need to make running a business easier. The
website is continuously being refined and progressively offers more online services in response to your To help customers with product and eligibility information, AusIndustry has about 400 customer
business needs. service managers located in more than 20 offices across Australia, plus a national hotline and website.
Our products and services AusIndustry offers both entitlement and grant programs. For a grants-based program, customers
• ABN Lookup allows you to apply online for ABN, GST and charity information on publicly listed compete for limited funds, based on the merit of their application. For entitlements-based programs,
Australian businesses such as an R&D Tax Concessions, a customer makes a claim, based on their self-assessed eligibility.
• Checklists that provide a step-by-step guide to starting and growing your business
• Content syndication which is a way to add our content to your website for free and help you maintain Our products and services
compliant information AusIndustry provides incentives to help Australian businesses:
• Government and business associations directory with over 1,500 government listings • Conduct research and development
• Business consultation website where you can register your interest to be consulted on government • Grow small business
policy or regulation • Take up new technology
• GovForms which helps you to find, manage and complete a range of government forms • Undertake industry-specific manufacturing and production
• The Small Business Support Line provides an excellent point of contact to access information and • Commercialise a new technology or venture
referral services that assist small businesses. Phone 1800 777 275. • Apply for a tax or duty concession for research and development or to improve export
competitiveness
Need more information? • Gain access to science resources.
Phone 1800 777 275 Department of Innovation, Industry,
Fax (02) 6213 7000 Science and Research Need more information?
www.business.gov.au GPO Box 9839 Phone 13 28 46
SBSL@innovation.gov.au Canberra ACT 2601 www.ausindustry.gov.au
hotline@ausindustry.gov.au
4 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 5

5. Austrade Australian Bureau of Statistics
Australia’s trade and investment development agency Providing statistical solutions to help you make informed decisions
The Australian Trade Commission – Austrade – is the Australian Government’s trade and investment The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is Australia’s official statistical agency. We assist and
development agency. encourage informed decision making, research and discussion within governments and the
community, by leading a high quality, objective and responsive national statistical service. We provide
Through a global network of more than 100 locations in over 55 countries, Austrade assists Australian a wide range of statistics that can be accessed for free on our website.
companies to succeed in international business, and facilitates productive foreign investment into
Australia. We operate a phone information and referral service, which is staffed by trained consultants who can
work with you to satisfy your business information needs. Small businesses can improve their business
Our role is to advance Australia’s international trade and investment interests by providing information, performance by making use of our information, products and services. To help us produce accurate
advice and services. statistics, we ask for small business co-operation in answering survey questions as accurately as
Our products and services: possible and returning answers on time.
• Assisting Australian companies to capture increased export and overseas investment opportunities Our products and services
• Facilitating productive foreign direct investment (FDI) into Australia • Identify existing business performance on an industry basis
• Engaging and promoting policy that reduces barriers to international trade • Identify potential market opportunities
• Administering the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme, which provides financial • Identify the value and quantity of individual commodities imported or exported in Australia
assistance to potential, new and existing Australian exporters • Provide information to assist in planning a new business location
• Providing advice to the Australian Government on its trade and investment policy agenda • Produce a demographic profile of a catchment area
• Delivering Australian consular, passport and other government services in designated overseas • Assist to target promotional campaigns
locations. • Census data.
Need more information? Need more information?
Phone 13 28 78 GPO Box 5301 Phone 1300 135 070 GPO Box 796
Fax (02) 9390 2024 Sydney NSW 2001 Fax 1300 135 211 Sydney NSW 2001
www.austrade.gov.au Aon Tower, Level 23 www.abs.gov.au Level 5, St Andrews House
info@austrade.gov.au 201 Kent Street client.services@abs.gov.au Sydney Square
Hours 8:00am – 6:00pm Sydney NSW 2000 Hours 9:00am – 5:00pm Sydney NSW 2000
6 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 7

6. Australian Competition Australian Securities and
and Consumer Commission Investments Commission
Promoting competition and fair trade We enforce and regulate company and financial services
If you are in business or planning to go into business the Australian Competition and Consumer law to protect consumers, investors and creditors
Commission (ACCC) can help you understand your rights and responsibilities under the Trade
Practices Act, 1974 (TPA). As the corporate regulator, we are responsible for ensuring that company directors and officers carry
out their duties honestly, diligently and in the best interests of their company. We have powers to
The TPA regulates how businesses deal with other businesses and with consumers. We provide protect consumers against misleading or deceptive and unconscionable conduct affecting all financial
extensive information through publications on topics such as franchising, advertising and selling, products and services, including credit.
country of origin requirements, anti-competitive practices, unconscionable conduct, consumer
protection, product safety and liability and collective bargaining. We license and monitor financial services businesses to ensure that they operate efficiently, honestly
and fairly. These businesses typically deal in superannuation, managed funds, shares and company
Our products and services securities, derivatives, and insurance. We also register all companies and ensure that information about
• Confidential inquiries and complaint handling them is available efficiently and quickly.
• Workshops and seminars on the TPA for industry, professional and ethnic business/community
organisations Our products and services
• Publications on a range of topics • Complain about companies*
• www.scamwatch.gov.au provides information to consumers and small business about how to • Find out about financial services professionals*
recognise, avoid and report scams.* • Find out about your legal obligations as a registered company*
* Online service • Register as an Australian company or close down your company*
• Search for information about other registered Australian companies.*
Need more information? * Online service
Phone 1300 302 021 GPO Box 3648
www.accc.gov.au Sydney NSW 2001 Need more information?
Hours 8:30am – 5:00pm Level 7, Angel Place Phone 1300 300 630 PO Box 4000
123 Pitt Street Fax (03) 5177 3999 Gippsland Mail Centre VIC 3841
Sydney NSW 2000 www.asic.gov.au Level 8, City Centre Tower
info.enquiries@asic.gov.au 55 Market Street
Hours 9:00am – 5:00pm Sydney NSW 2000
8 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 9

7. Australian Taxation Office Building and Construction Industry
At your service Long Service Payments Corporation
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is responsible for the administration of Australia’s taxation system
Long service…you deserve it
through a range of collection systems, including income tax, GST, superannuation and excise.
The Building and Construction Industry Long Service Payments Corporation (the Corporation)
We also administer benefits and refunds, including income tax and GST refunds, excise grants and administers a portable long service scheme for the NSW building and construction industry. The
superannuation contributions. industry’s portable long service scheme rewards building workers for their service to the industry,
rather than to one employer. Individual workers have periods of employment in the building and
Our products and services construction industry recorded by the Corporation from information provided by their employers.
• Telephone advice and assistance service for tax and superannuation matters
• Tax and superannuation information in publications and on our website* There are no fees for employers or workers. The scheme is funded by a levy payable on all building and
• Electronic tools and calculators to help you manage your business tax and superannuation affairs* construction projects in NSW that cost $25,000 or more.
• Online services to order publications, lodge activity statements and check business tax accounts, Employers are required to register with the Corporation and then advise the Corporation any time they
register for an Australian business number, a tax file number, GST and PAYG (Pay As You Go) and start and end workers’ employment. At the end of each financial year the Corporation will provide
update registration details* employers with a list of all workers that are registered as working for them. The employer must check
• Business assistance visits providing personalised special assistance the list, confirm the details and return it to the Corporation. All reporting obligations can be done
• Seminars and workshops on topics including employer obligations, GST, PAYG, business activity online. Penalties apply for failure to meet these legal obligations under the Building and Construction
statements and record keeping. To enquire or register phone 1300 661 104. Industry Long Service Payments Act 1986.
* Online service
Our products and services
Need more information?
• Help businesses understand and meet their obligations under the Building and Construction
Phone 13 10 20 (superannuation) GPO Box 9990
Industry Long Service Payments Act 1986
Phone 13 28 66 (business) Sydney NSW 2000
• Provide advice and assistance on long service payments.
www.ato.gov.au
Hours 8:00am – 6:00pm Need more information?
Phone 13 14 41 Locked Bag 3000
www.lspc.nsw.gov.au Central Coast Mail Centre
info@lspc.nsw.gov.au NSW 2252
Hours 8:30am – 5:00pm
10 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 11

8. Centrelink Department of Education
and Training
Giving you options
State Training Services
Centrelink is an Australian government statutory agency, delivering a range of Commonwealth services State Training Services assists and manages the vocational education and training sector in NSW and
to the Australian community. Centrelink’s Financial Information Service (FIS) provides independent, plans for its future.
free and confidential information to help people make informed decisions about investment and
financial issues. State Training Services works in partnership with employers and training organisations, government
agencies, industry and regional communities to develop solutions to skills shortages, provide access to
As well as growing your business it’s important to invest in non-business assets. FIS can help you, and training for disadvantaged groups, address structural or economic challenges, provide quality training
your staff, by providing information on financial planning and financial products. FIS is available to opportunities within the workforce to support training for business growth, economic development and
everyone by phone, appointment or through seminars. incorporation of ‘green’ initiatives.
Our products and services State Training Services provides a variety of initiatives and services for businesses through regional
• Information on shares and managed investments, including getting started on a savings plan centres and via online resources.
• Information on superannuation, annuities, taxation and how it affects you and your investments
• Information on investment options, risks and strategies Our products and services
• Information on choosing an expert, such as a financial planner • Information for businesses on finding relevant training for staff
• Information on pensions, allowances and other benefits • Information and advice for businesses on apprenticeships and traineeships including obligations and
• Free financial and lifestyle seminars - email fis.seminar.bookings@centrelink.gov.au (Please what could best suit your business
include the title, date of seminar and a phone number). A list of current seminars is available at • Information on group training organisations that make it easy for your business to take on
www.centrelink.gov.au/FIS apprentices or trainees
• Information on becoming a group training organisation
Need more information? • Information and support for workforce management
Phone 13 23 00 (FIS Officer) Locked bag 5028 • Information on skills recognition
Phone 13 63 57 (seminars) Alexandria NSW 2015 • Advice and assistance for businesses feeling the impact of the economic downturn
www.centrelink.gov.au • Registering training organisations and quality assurance of the vocational training sector
Hours 8:00am – 5:00pm • Funding training organisations to provide training courses in priority skills areas.
Need more information?
Phone 13 28 11 Level 12, 1 Oxford Street
www.training.nsw.edu.au Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Hours 8:30am – 4:30pm
12 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 13

9. Department of Environment, Department of Immigration
Climate Change and Water NSW and Citizenship
Partnering with business, profiting you People our business
and the environment
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) is building Australia through the well managed
Good environmental practice is good business - it helps to reduce costs, lower risks and increase entry and settlement of people.
competitiveness. Through its family, economic and humanitarian programs, DIAC helps to promote a society which
As a starting point, DECCW helps business to reduce power bills. It’s all part of the NSW Government’s values Australian citizenship, appreciates cultural diversity and enables migrants to participate
Energy Efficiency Strategy and our commitment to work with business to lower carbon pollution. equitably in social and economic advancement.
We offer rebates for energy efficiency improvements and subsidised energy audits. We can also help DIAC is developing a framework to guide migration planning and address demographic challenges in
you with waste, water, supply chain, staff engagement and purchasing choices. building Australia’s future. This framework will ensure a balance between Australia’s population, labour
market, economic, environmental, urban and regional development outcomes.
Our products and services
The Australian Government is working closely with state, territory and local governments, industry
• Rebates of up to $5,000 for energy efficiency improvements (Energy Efficiency for Small Business
peak bodies, unions and regional authorities to provide migration programs that help fill short and
Program)
long-term skill shortages for employers in metropolitan and regional areas.
• Subsidised energy audits for medium to larger business (Sustainability Advantage Energy Saver)
• Help for your business to manage resources efficiently, engage staff and suppliers and enhance Our products and services
your other sustainability practices (Sustainability Advantage Program) • Visa options for business people
• Energy efficiency training (Energy Efficiency Training Program) • Appointing industry, union and regional outreach officers to work directly with peak and regional
• Industry-specific information to help you to manage environmental issues common to your sector. industry bodies
This includes guides, resources and tools available on www.environment.nsw.gov.au/forbusiness. • Developing flexible programs for employers to fill skill shortages
htm and information on environmental legislation, compliance and licensing • Overseas recruitment expos
• The National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS), which rates the environmental • Priority processing of employer and state and territory sponsored visas for skills in critical shortage.
performance of existing buildings, including offices.
Need more information? Need more information?
Phone 1300 361 967 PO Box A290 Phone 13 18 81 GPO Box 9984
Phone (02) 8837 6000 (business partnerships) Sydney South NSW 1232 Fax (02) 9032 4096 Sydney NSW 2001
sustainbus@environment.nsw.gov.au www.immi.gov.au Ground Floor
Hours 9:00am – 4:00pm 26 Lee Street
www.environment.nsw.gov.au
Wednesdays 9:00am – 1:30pm Sydney NSW 2000
Hours 9:00am – 5:00pm
14 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 15

10. Enterprise Connect Export Finance and
Australia’s small to medium Insurance Corporation
sized business assistance initiative Overcoming financial barriers for exporters
Enterprise Connect provides support to eligible Australian small and medium sized businesses. Core Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (EFIC) provides finance and insurance solutions to help
services include Business Reviews for eligible businesses at no charge to firms and grant assistance to Australian exporters overcome the financial barriers they face when growing their businesses overseas.
implement recommendations flowing from the business reviews.
As the Australian Government’s export credit agency, we help successful businesses large and small to
We have 12 centres located across the country that work with a diverse range of industries. All our win, finance and protect export trade or overseas investments where their bank is unable to provide all
services are available to businesses whether they are located in metropolitan or remote areas. the support they need.
Our products and services EFIC is uniquely placed to do this: we use over 50 years of export finance and industry expertise,
• Business reviews at no charge to eligible businesses conducted by skilled Business Advisers who contacts at financial institutions around the globe, the strength of our AAA credit rating and an
provide sustainable recommendations to help businesses reach their full potential entrepreneurial business approach to make export deals happen.
• Grant assistance of up to $20,000 in matched funding to implement recommendations flowing
from the Business Reviews Our products and services
• Placement of experienced researchers into businesses to develop and implement your new • Bonding facilities
commercial ideas. • Direct loans
• Workshops, industry events and networking opportunities • Working capital guarantees
• Referral services to connect businesses with expertise and support in relevant technological fields • Export finance guarantees and documentary credit guarantees
• Technology Partnerships equipment register that links firms owning highly specialised but • Medium-term export credit insurance
underutilised equipment with other businesses that may be able to use it. • Bond insurance
• Political risk insurance
Need more information? • Project finance.
Phone 13 17 91 GPO Box 6544
Fax (02) 9805 4111 North Ryde NSW 2113 Need more information?
www.enterpriseconnect.gov.au Building 91, 14 Julius Avenue Phone 1800 093 724 PO Box R65
Hours 9:00am – 5:00pm North Ryde NSW 2113 Fax (02) 9251 3851 Royal Exchange NSW 1223
www.efic.gov.au Level 10 Export House
info@efic.gov.au 22 Pitt Street
Hours 8:30am – 5:30pm Sydney NSW 2000
16 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 17

11. Fair Work Ombudsman Industry & Investment NSW
Work with Australians to educate, promote Helping people to start, run and grow their business
fairness and ensure justice in the workplace
Industry & Investment NSW offers a range of services to meet the needs of people
NSW is part of the national workplace relations system administered by the Fair Work Act 2009. The operating established small to medium sized businesses, and new starters in business across the State.
national system covers all NSW private sector employers and their employees.
Our programs can help you start or run your business and expand your markets and can be accessed
If you are starting a new business there are some important things you need to know. There are ten Na- through our network of 18 offices located around the State.
tional Employment Standards which apply to all NSW workplaces. Your employees will also be covered
by one of the 122 industry-based modern awards. Modern awards set out important legal obligations Our products and services
for employers, such as minimum pay rates and other workplace entitlements. • A network of 14 Business Advisory Services across the State which offer confidential advice and
assistance about starting and managing a business.
The Fair Work Ombudsman is an independent statutory agency created by the Fair Work Act 2009. We • Innovation Advisory Service offer innovators regardless of where they are located, the chance to
replace and build on the work and services previously undertaken by the Workplace Ombudsman and test their ideas through access to skilled innovation advisors.
the general advisory function of the Workplace Authority. • Tailored workshops, seminars and programs for women in business, home-based and micro
business operators, young entrepreneurs and other industry groups.
In broad terms, the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman is to promote harmonious, productive and
• Large event programs including Small Business September, MicroBiz Week and NSW Manufacturing
cooperative workplace relations, and to monitor, inquire into, investigate, and enforce compliance with
Week.
relevant Commonwealth workplace laws. For more information see NSW Industrial Relations on
• The Business Clusters program supporting geographical and industry based clusters through the
page 22.
development of commercial business networks.
Our products and services • Aboriginal Business Development programs offering information and training for the development
and growth of Aboriginal businesses.
• Fair Work Online – website information on the national system for employers and employees* • Trade Program Services supporting export activity in the small business sector through the
• Fact sheets, template documents and best practice guides* provision of export advice, trade missions and market visits.
• Fair Work Information Statement* • The SmallBiz website www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au with free hints, tips and tools for small business.
• Fair Work Infoline – 13 13 94 – for queries relating to pay and conditions. Packed with up-to-date information it also includes news, links and interactive resources including
* Online service the Small Business Tool Kit.
Need more information? Need more information?
Phone 13 13 94 GPO Box 2567 Phone 1300 134 359 GPO Box 5477
www.fairwork.gov.au Adelaide SA 5001 (complaint forms) www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au Sydney NSW 2001
Hours 8:00am – 6:00pm Level 4, 255 Elizabeth Street assist@business.nsw.gov.au
Sydney NSW 2000
18 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 19

12. IP Australia NSW Fair Trading
Protect your intellectual property Serving consumers and traders in NSW
Intellectual property can be your most valuable business asset and it is important to clearly identify NSW Fair Trading regulates consumer law with the aim of creating a fair marketplace for all. We advise
it. It may be the name on your front door, a distinctive design, an invention or your client list. You can businesses and traders in NSW on fair ethical practice. Unfair practices are investigated and prevented
put strategies in place to safeguard your rights and prevent others from exploiting your competitive and a licensing system helps ensure unqualified or inappropriate people do not work in a range of NSW
advantage. industries.
If your company has intellectual property, creating a strategy to use, manage and protect that property Traders and business people can register business names and obtain the licences and certificates they
may be the best investment you’ll ever make. IP Australia can help you get started. We offer a suite of need to operate in New South Wales. Fair Trading regulates industries in a range of areas including
free information such as Smart Start, a guide for new businesses, and Don’t Give Away Your Most home building, property and real estate, pawnbrokers, co-operatives and associations, motor vehicles
Valuable Asset, a brochure providing strategic information on intellectual property protection, and and retail tenancy.
patent, trade mark and design application kits.
Our products and services
Our products and services • Business, property and building licences*
• Business strategy information* • Registering and using a business name
• Database searching services* • Resolving disputes with consumers
• Latest news updates* • Information on running a business
• Links to information on protecting your ideas internationally* • Setting up co-operatives and associations
• Online fact sheets* • Understanding product safety and standards
• We grant intellectual property rights, specifically patents, trade marks, designs and plant • Retail tenancy
breeder’s rights. • 24 Fair Trading Centres across NSW.
* Online service * Online service
Need more information? Need more information?
Phone 1300 651 010 Phone 13 32 20 PO Box 972
www.ipaustralia.gov.au www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au Parramatta NSW 2124
assist@ipaustralia.gov.au Hours 8:30am – 5:00pm
20 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 21

13. NSW Industrial Relations Office of the Mediation Adviser
Best practice employment advice for NSW workplaces A fast and easy way to solve disputes
NSW Industrial Relations delivers workshops to assist small businesses implement innovative, The Office of the Mediation Adviser (OMA) appoints mediators to assist franchisors and franchisees
productive and equitable workplace practices including developing workplace policies and strategies to to resolve their problems without going to court. The OMA has a specialist panel of mediators across
manage staff, improve staff retention and keep skilled employees. Australia. These commercial mediators are trained in mediation and are familiar with franchising
issues. Their role is to facilitate a commercial outcome.
For more information on the National Employment Standards and modern awards see the Fair Work
Ombudsman on page 18. The OMA appoints a mediator for a dispute covered by the Franchising Code of Conduct upon request.
The Franchising Code of Conduct is a mandatory code prescribed under the federal Trade Practices Act.
Our products and services The settlement rate of mediations conducted through the OMA is around 75%.
• Information on shop trading hours and restricted shop trading exemptions
• Information about NSW Public holidays Our products and services
• Long service leave calculator* • Confidential and free advice about how mediation can resolve your dispute
• Information on long service leave entitlements • Explaining the dispute resolution procedure as per the Franchising Code of Conduct
• Community presentations providing information about workplace obligations, rights and • Providing a suggested Notice of Dispute to send to the other party
entitlements for employees • Appointing a mediator from a national panel of mediators experienced in dealing with
• Workshops for employer on employment law and human resource issues franchise issues
• Subscribe to a range of e-newsletters covering workplace and human resource information* • Information about the mediation process, what to expect, alternatives to mediation and
* Online service introduction to the Franchising Code of Conduct
• Quality control of franchise dispute mediations.
Need more information?
Phone 13 16 28 McKell Building Need more information?
www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au 2-24 Rawson Place Phone 1800 150 667
Twitter NSW_IR Sydney NSW 2000 Fax (02) 9264 8268
Hours 8:30am – 5:00pm www.mediationadviser.com.au
office@mediationadviser.com.au
Hours 9:00am – 5:30pm
22 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 23

14. Office of State Revenue TAFE NSW
Collecting revenue to benefit NSW Skilling your workforce
The Office of State Revenue (OSR) is responsible for administering State taxation, collecting revenue, TAFE NSW provides vocational education and training for individual and business needs throughout
outstanding fines and penalties, developing policy and implementing legislation relating to State NSW. With business-driven training programs that are practical and innovative, we can equip you and
taxation for and on behalf of the people of NSW. your staff with the skills and competencies required to compete in today’s business environment.
We provide a number of products and services that can be accessed online, including subscriptions, Our delivery options are flexible and designed to minimise disruption to your business productivity.
publications, forms, online calculators and seminar information. Register online for the free seminars, Training options include online, distance education, face-to-face, on the job ‘just-in-time’ training or a
which are suitable for solicitors, accountants, professional advisers and anyone interested in keeping up blend of different methods. Our training programs are up-to-date and customised specifically to your
to date with State taxation issues. business needs to maximise your training investment.
Our products and services Our products and services
• Fact sheets, printable forms, newsletters, online calculators and other information are available on • Advanced course search and online enrolment for short courses and re-enrolments*
our website* • Advice and assistance to help you maximise the benefits of government-funded training incentives
• Free online subscription service that notifies you of significant updates and changes to our available to employers, their trainees and apprentices
publications, legislation, revenue rulings and seminar program* • Certification required to meet new and current industry legislation
• Free seminars covering the latest amendments and current issues relating to land tax, payroll tax, • Nationally recognised training programs and fast-track short courses expertly developed through
duties, grants and levies. TAFE NSW, in consultation with business and key client groups
* Online service • Skills audits, onsite needs analysis, skills gap training and formal certification for your employees’
existing skills.
Need more information?
* Online service
Phone (02) 9689 6200 GPO Box 4042
Fax (02) 9689 6464 Sydney NSW 2001 Need more information?
www.osr.nsw.gov.au Phone 13 16 01
www.sdro.nsw.gov.au Fax (02) 9283 4674
Hours 8:30am – 4:30pm TTY (02) 8289 4703
www.tafensw.edu.au/employerservices
tafeic@tafensw.edu.au
Hours 9:00am – 5:00pm
24 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 25

15. Government
agencies index
WorkCover NSW NSW Government Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Safe business is good business business.gov.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
AusIndustry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
WorkCover works with you to achieve safer, more productive workplaces and effective recovery, return
Austrade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
to work and security for injured workers.
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
We offer a range of free products and services that will help you run your business safely, ensure your
Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
workers compensation obligations are met and improve your workplace safety performance.
Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Our products and services Australian Taxation Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
• Advice and assistance on OHS and workers compensation
• Workshops, presentations and advisory visits Building and Construction Industry Long Service Payments Corporation. . . . . . . . . . 11
• Small business forums and mentor program Centrelink. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
• Insurance, premiums and claims support Department of Education and Training (DET). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
• Advice on return to work
• Online safety self assessment and wages status tools Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW (DECCW). . . . . . . . . . 14
• eNews with the latest workplace safety and workers compensation news - visit Department of Immigraton and Citizenship (DIAC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/enews or call 13 10 50 to subscribe. Enterprise Connect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Need more information? Export Finance and Insurance Corporation (EFIC). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Phone 13 10 50 Locked bag 2906 Fair Work Ombudsman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Fax (02) 4325 4145 Lisarow NSW 2252
Industry & Investment NSW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
www.workcover.nsw.gov.au 92-100 Donnison Street
IP Australia (Patents and Trade Marks Office). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
NSW Fair Trading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
NSW Industrial Relations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Office of the Mediation Adviser (OMA). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Office of State Revenue (OSR). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
TAFE NSW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
WorkCover NSW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
26 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 27

16. Other useful contacts
Australian Federation of Employers and Department of Justice and
Industries (AFEI) Attorney General NSW
9264 2000 1800 684 449
www.afei.org.au www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/agd
Australian Industry Group Indigenous Business Australia
1300 783 844 (Information for members) 1800 107 107
www.aigroup.com.au www.iba.gov.au
Australian Institute of Management LawAccess NSW
1300 651 811 1300 888 529
www.aimnsw.com.au www.lawaccess.nsw.gov.au
Business Enterprise Centres NSW Business Chamber
1300 363 551 13 26 96
www.beca.org.au www.nswbusinesschamber.com.au
Chartered Accountants NSW Enterprise Workshop
1300 137 322 02 9209 4796
www.charteredaccountants.com.au www.enterpriseworkshop.com.au
Community Relations Commission NSW Seniors Card
8255 6767 1300 364 758
www.crc.nsw.gov.au www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au
CPA Australia Standards Australia
1300 737 373 1800 035 822
www.cpaaustralia.com.au www.standards.org.au
28 Running a business in NSW Running a business in NSW 29